Evgeni Malkin is currently serving a five‑game NHL suspension and is eligible to come back on March 16, 2026, for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ game against the Colorado Avalanche.

Quick Scoop: When does Malkin come back?

“When does Malkin come back?” – right now, it’s all about the end of his suspension clock.

What happened?

  • Evgeni Malkin was suspended five games for a slash to Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin during a recent game.
  • The suspension was handed down by the NHL Department of Player Safety in early March 2026.
  • The penalty is without pay, which also impacts his season earnings while he sits.

So, when is he actually back?

  • Multiple reports state that Malkin will be eligible to return on March 16, 2026 , when the Penguins face the Colorado Avalanche.
  • Until then, he must miss five games, including matchups against several playoff‑caliber opponents (Boston, Carolina, Vegas, Utah, and Philadelphia).

Why this timing matters

  • The Penguins are in a tight Eastern Conference playoff race, so losing their veteran star for five games is a big blow.
  • Sidney Crosby is also working his way back from injury, which makes Malkin’s absence feel even heavier for Pittsburgh’s offense.

Mini forum-style take

Some fans are saying: “At least it’s just five and he’s back by March 16.”
Others worry that dropping points in this stretch could haunt the Penguins if the playoff race goes down to the wire.

Key date (TL;DR)

  • Evgeni Malkin return: March 16, 2026 vs. Colorado Avalanche (eligible to play).

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.